Navigation System Development for small Vehicles (rockets)

Project Title: Navigation System Prototype Development for Modular Compact Vehicles and Small Launch Platforms Project Description: We are seeking a skilled embedded systems developer to create a modular Navigation System (N) for compact aerial vehicles and small launch platforms. This system will calculate real-time position, velocity, and orientation of the vehicle using various sensors. It will then exchange this data with the Guidance and Control systems to ensure accurate trajectory management and stabilization. Key System Requirements: Architecture Design: Develop both system and software architectures with modularity in mind. Sensor Integration: Use a combination of IMU, GPS, and accelerometers for real-time data acquisition. Data Processing Algorithms: Develop algorithms for accurate position and velocity calculations, accounting for sensor fusion and calibration. Data Communication: Implement a data exchange protocol to send positioning and orientation information to the Guidance and Control systems. Prototype Testing: Validate the Navigation system’s accuracy and reliability through simulated and practical testing scenarios. Technologies: Microcontroller: Arduino Uno/Pro for initial testing Programming Tools: MATLAB/Simulink for code generation, Arduino IDE Hardware: IMU, GPS module, accelerometers, barometer (optional for altitude), and other sensors as needed Project Tasks and Milestones: Milestone 1: System and Software Architecture (15%) Task 1.1: Design a detailed system architecture for the Navigation system, defining data flow and interaction with the Guidance and Control systems. Task 1.2: Develop the software architecture, outlining modules for data acquisition, processing, and communication. Deliverable: Comprehensive system and software architecture document with diagrams, narratives, and interface specifications. Milestone 2: Sensor Integration and Calibration (20%) Task 2.1: Integrate an IMU, GPS, and accelerometers with the microcontroller to collect position, velocity, and orientation data. Task 2.2: Develop calibration routines for each sensor type to improve accuracy and reduce drift. Deliverable: Demonstrated sensor integration and calibrated data acquisition in the form of basic MATLAB/Simulink simulations or Arduino outputs. Milestone 3: Data Processing Algorithm Design (25%) Task 3.1: Implement sensor fusion algorithms to combine data from GPS, IMU, and accelerometers, ensuring accurate and stable positioning. Task 3.2: Develop algorithms to process real-time orientation and position data, filtering noise and improving stability. Deliverable: MATLAB/Simulink model of the data processing algorithm, with demonstration in a simulation environment. Milestone 4: Communication Protocol and Data Interface (20%) Task 4.1: Design and implement a communication protocol to share position, velocity, and orientation data with Guidance and Control systems. Task 4.2: Define a standardized data format for efficient communication, ensuring modularity across systems. Deliverable: Documentation and demonstration of data exchange between Navigation, Guidance, and Control systems. Milestone 5: Prototype Development and Testing (15%) Task 5.1: Develop the Navigation system prototype on an Arduino microcontroller, integrating all sensors and communication protocols. Task 5.2: Test the prototype to assess data accuracy, latency, and stability in simulated and practical conditions. Deliverable: Fully functional standalone Navigation module, delivered and ready for personal testing. CAD files. Milestone 6: Project Handover and Documentation (5%) Task 6.1: Compile all documentation, including final system and software architecture, codebase, testing reports, and user manual for setup and testing. Task 6.2: Provide guidance for future development, such as transitioning to an RTOS-compatible microcontroller. Deliverable: Complete project documentation, code repository, and a project handover meeting.